Wrestling legends and celebrities are paying tribute to Hulk Hogan death, who has passed away at the age of 71. The iconic two-time WWE Hall of Famer and former world champion, born Terry Gene Bollea, died on Thursday, according to police in Clearwater, Florida, and WWE officials.
Following the news, heartfelt messages poured in across social media from both the wrestling community and fans around the world.
In a statement, WWE described Hogan as “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures,” crediting him with playing a key role in catapulting the brand to international fame during the 1980s. The company also offered condolences to his family, friends, and fans.
Retired wrestling great Ric Flair expressed his grief online, writing, “I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend @Hulk Hogan. Hulk has been by my side since we began our journey in the wrestling business.”
He continued, “Hulk Hogan was an incredible athlete, a remarkable talent, a loyal friend, and a devoted father. Our friendship has meant the world to me. He was always there for me—even when I didn’t ask. When I was hospitalized with only a 2% chance of survival, he was one of the first to visit and sat by my bedside, praying for me. During my son Reid’s illness, Hulk lent me money without hesitation. Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you. Rest in peace, my friend.”
Charlotte Flair, daughter of Ric Flair and a prominent WWE Superstar herself, paid tribute to Hogan on X, recalling his support during a difficult time: “He was there for me when I nearly lost my dad eight years ago.”
Charlotte Flair, daughter of Ric Flair and a top WWE Superstar in her own right, honored Hogan on X by reflecting on his unwavering support during a personal crisis. “One of the few people who was there for all of it was Hulk Hogan,” she wrote, referring to the time she nearly lost her father eight years ago. She added, “My heart breaks for his children, Nick and Brooke Hogan.”
Hulk Hogan was an incredible athlete
Former WWE Champion John “Bradshaw” Layfield also paid tribute to Hogan on X, sharing that the wrestling icon was “one of the reasons I got into wrestling.”
“Hulk was always incredibly kind to me and stood out as the one celebrity who truly wanted to meet all the kids I brought from Bermuda,” Layfield shared. “Rest in peace, legend. There will never be another. Hulkamania lives on forever.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson posted a photo from the campaign trail last year, featuring himself alongside Hulk Hogan, Education Secretary Linda McMahon, and former President Donald Trump.
Hulk Hogan notably delivered a speech backing Donald Trump on the final night of last year’s Republican National Convention.
“We all have fond memories of Hulk Hogan,” Johnson wrote. “From my childhood in the ’80s to campaigning with him last year, I always saw him as a giant—both in stature and in spirit. May he rest in peace.”
Donald Trump Jr. also paid tribute on X, sharing a photo of Hogan with the caption, “R.I.P to a legend. HULK HOGAN.”
Hogan’s friends across Hollywood also honored his memory following his passing. Throughout his career, the wrestling icon made numerous television appearances, including a guest spot on the sitcom Suddenly susan alongside Brooke Shields.
On Thursday, Brooke Shields shared a tribute to Hogan on Instagram, posting a photo of herself with Hulk Hogan and comedian Kathy Griffin.
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“Rest easy, Hulk,” Shields wrote in the caption. “This moment and his entire guest episode on suddenly Susan was a true highlight. Sending love to all of his loved ones today.”
Back in 1982, Hogan appeared alongside Sylvester Stallone in Rocky III, playing the larger-than-life wrestling champion Thunderlips.
Stallone shared on Instagram, “I had the pleasure of meeting this incredible talent and showman when he was just 26. He was truly wonderful, and his remarkable presence made Rocky III, something truly special.”
Former saved by the bell star and TV host Mario Lopez shared a heartfelt Instagram post Thursday, recalling the moment he and his kids met Hulk Hogan in person. Lopez said he “grew up running wild like a true Hulkamaniac” and was “truly starstruck” when he finally met the wrestling icon.
“News of Hulk Hogan’s passing hits hard — it feels like a piece of my childhood is gone,” he wrote. “The bandana, the flex, the leg drop, that larger-than-life energy — he was a superhero to so many of us. Rest easy, brother… forever a legend.
